Off for a cruise on a catamaran on the Canal du Midi: a dream basically difficult to realize if one is handicapped. Naviratous strives to make it come true while respecting the environment.
Based in the Mont-Blanc Range, the Loisirs Assis Évasion Association has for 10 years been developing mountain nature activities for adults and children in a handicapped situation. After the ski tandem, backed by the Foundation in 2005, the association is branching out into the creation of all-terrain tandems for ramblers.
The "Treize Voyages" association has a twin objective : create holidays for the mentally handicapped while employing people who are either handicapped themselves or socially excluded. A tourism concept which is unique in France.
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.
Workshop Report including summary presentations and speeches by plenary speakers, workshop conclusions and photos from the optional excursion to accessible attractions in Athens.
