Accessible Travel: A Necessity, Not an Option
One of the essential steps is mapping accessible locations across Czechia, a project being executed by CzechTourism in partnership with the Network without Barriers, z.s.. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of genuinely accessible tourist destinations, relying on accurate and verified data rather than just claims. The mapping process will continue next year as well.
Additionally, the push for more accessible tourism is supported by the Memorandum of Cooperation that CzechTourism signed with the Network without Barriers this year. Together, they are committed to collaborating in education, providing methodological support, data sharing, research, and promoting good practices in accessible tourism.
“We do not view accessibility as a one-off project, but as a long-term commitment. This includes mapping accessible locations, education, and how we discuss travel. We want Czechia to be a place where everyone feels welcome, and where accessibility is a standard part of quality services,” states František Reismüller, Director of the Czech Tourist Authority – CzechTourism.
“The Memorandum of Cooperation provides a credible framework for developing accessible tourism with a long-term vision and shared responsibility. We are delighted to be part of this initiative and to help create an environment where accessibility is a standard benefit for all,” adds Jana Sirotková, Vice-Chair of the Network without Barriers Association.
Education as the Key to Change
This year, CzechTourism introduced a free e-learning course that focuses on communication with people with disabilities. The course comprises six modules aimed at tourism professionals who interact with visitors. Another course emphasizes Digital Accessibility and will soon include a specialized program for making services accessible to individuals with hearing impairments, which is being developed by Deaf Friendly before the year’s end.
Beyond online education, CzechTourism is also committed to in-person meetings and sharing practical experiences. Pre-sessional workshops, in collaboration with Pestrá, o.p.s., have already taken place in South Moravia, with another planned for December in the Pilsen region.
Tourism Through the Eyes of People with Disabilities
Individuals with disabilities want to travel, explore new places, and relax just like everyone else. However, research indicates that they often face barriers that make planning and travel unnecessarily challenging.
Deaf individuals frequently lack adequate visual information during transport and sightseeing. Wheelchair users find that actual accessibility often doesn’t match the stated claims, and parents with strollers encounter similar obstacles in transport and public spaces. Additionally, outdated or inaccurate information on tourist destination websites complicates trip planning.
Tourism in Czech Sign Language
Since February this year, CzechTourism has been offering information in Czech Sign Language. A dedicated section featuring short videos has been created on the agency’s website to assist deaf individuals in navigating not only CzechTourism’s offerings but also general tourism topics.
“Our objective is to raise awareness and knowledge about accessible tourism among professionals and the broader public so that we can continuously enhance services in the tourism industry. We are supported by numerous experts from various organizations and associations involved in this area. Simultaneously, we aim to convince tourism entrepreneurs that enhancing accessibility is not merely about removing barriers but also about creating new opportunities for their businesses, tourists, and local communities,” remarks Eva Beranová, experience manager of CzechTourism, responsible for accessible travel.
Influencers “Without Barriers”
The push for accessible travel is also evident in international outreach. This year, CzechTourism organized two influencer trips geared towards accessibility. German influencer Ayleen Walter explored Prague and the Central Bohemian Region, highlighting the city’s public transport, regional services, accessible routes for individuals with mobility challenges, and the friendliness of the staff. Similarly, British influencer Jennie Berry uncovered the charms of South Moravia.
CzechTourism sees accessibility as a long-term priority. Systematic mapping, education, collaboration with experts, and innovative communication formats all share a common goal: to make Czechia a genuinely open destination for everyone, without exception.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities serves as a reminder that travel is meant to connect people. It’s crucial that both physical and prejudice-related barriers are dismantled.
