"The issue of adapting environments that have been created over the centuries represents a major challenge. New functions and techniques have to be added to old environments, at the same time as we cherish our unique cultural heritage. Preserving and changing at the same time is a task that demands special skill, creativity and prudence."
The objective of the project is to create a social environment in which everyone, including those with restricted physical ability, can travel comfortably without having to worry about inaccessibility.
At a congress held last week by the European Network for Accessible Tourism (ENAT), over 200 representatives from international disability organisations, tourist boards and private enterprise came to the overwhelming conclusion that accessible tourism is the fastest-growing business opportunity in the tourism industry.
This week the Marina d'Or beachside holiday resort in the Region of Valencia, Spain welcomes some 200 delegates at the ENAT International Congress on Tourism for All, organised by Fundación ONCE and supported by the European Commission. Guest speakers from North and South America, as well as Australia will complement European presenters from all sectors of the tourism industry, public authorities, NGOs and centres of research and education.
I would like to present a summary of our experience working on 'beach access for all'. I am in charge of all European countries for the marketing and sales of MOBI-MAT, a removable matting product which allows wheelchair users and people with walking difficulties to cross difficult terrain, like beaches.
On 3rd December 2001, the European Commission, together with the European Disability Forum, took "Discrimination By Design" as the theme of the Conference to celebrate the European Day of Disabled People. This background document was prepared to explain the concept of Design for All and its importance as an approach for making the world accessible to people with disabilities. The document is available in 11 languages. Author: Ivor Ambrose.
Guidelines by the Canadian Transportation Agency to help air, rail and ferry terminal operators implement the provisions of the Canadian Code of Practice on Passenger Terminal Accessibility, to make their operations more accessible for persons with disabilities.
The Build-for-All Manual presents the rationale and a method for applying Design-for-all principles and criteria in the public procurement of buildings and infrastructure works.
Workshop Report including summary presentations and speeches by plenary speakers, workshop conclusions and photos from the optional excursion to accessible attractions in Athens.
