The first SDG Newsletter focuses on SDG10 – Reduced Inequalities. SDG10 aims to empower and promote the social economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status. Specifically, the Newsletter focuses on accessible tourism as a key to achieving SDG10.
8 May 2018. This study has undertaken literature reviews, user and experts’ questionnaires, interviews and workshop surveys, analysis of EU legislation, SWOT and Multi-Criteria Analysis, identification of best practices and analyses of case studies. This has led to a mapping of accessibility across the EU Member States (identifying relevant state clusters) for three different sectors: local transport, long-distance transport, and tourism. Specific policies, research priorities and recommendations are made per state clusters and for the EU, which can enhance accessibility in each of the three sectors.
The new "Adagio Tours", available for Mediterranean cruises on the flagship Costa Diadema from January 2019, will also allow guests with impaired mobility to take part in group shore excursions at no extra cost. The programmes have been planned with the help of 15 women with multiple sclerosis, thanks to an initiative promoted by the Costa Crociere Foundation and AISM.
The European Commission announces two cities to hold the title of "European Capitals of Smart Tourism" in 2019 and recognises a further four cities for their outstanding achievements in: accessibility, sustainability, digitalisation and cultural heritage & creativity
Brussels, 26 June 2018. VisitFlanders, the tourism authority of the Flemish Region of Belgium, hosted a gathering of tourism organisations and professionals at the launch of the new World Tourism for All Quality Programme.
Amsterdam 3rd May 2018. Booking Cares Fund announced its first ever recipients, including influencer, Ms. Xun Ji, who will develop a database and WeChat service portal to provide accessible tourism information, services and cultural experience opportunities for Chinese travellers with a disability and people over 60.
The project, wholly financed by a grant from the Booking Cares Fund awarded to Ms. Xun Ji, a young disabled Chinese woman, will provide accessible tourism information services and cultural experience opportunities for both Chinese and foreign travellers with particular access needs, while at the same time engaging professionals in the travel industry, preparing them for the new caring economy.
