International Day of Persons with Disabilities: A Move Towards More Inclusive Tourism?

At HomeExchange, inclusivity is one of our core values. Everyone should be able to go on vacation without difficulty. That’s why we are committed to making accessible accommodation available for people with reduced mobility. So as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities approaches, we’re sharing our focus on inclusion in tourism, plus an overview of our commitment to more accessible travel.

What is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities?

Since 1992, and based on an initiative by the United Nations, December 3rd has been designated as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Celebrated worldwide, this day aims to promote the rights and well-being of people with disabilities in all areas of political, social, economic, and cultural life, as well as to raise awareness of their circumstances.

This day is an opportunity for associations, governments, businesses and individuals to come together and initiate actions that challenge societal perceptions of people with disabilities. The objectives of this day include:

• Raising public awareness to foster understanding and encourage dialogue about disability issues;
• Mobilizing support from as many people as possible;
• Highlighting the daily challenges faced by people with disabilities;
• Showcasing and promoting the actions led by associations and governments, such as policies and programs that ensure access to education, employment, healthcare, transportation and leisure activities.

Collaboration, understanding, and education are essential to building a more inclusive society. As such, governments, organizations and individuals worldwide champion disability awareness in a variety of ways across the globe.

The main goal of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is to foster collective awareness and to remind us that every action counts—whether through public policies, corporate initiatives, or individual actions.

Holidays and Reduced Mobility: HomeExchange Makes Travel More Accessible!

Did you know ? According to the Global Inequalities Observatory, 40% of adults with disabilities do not go on vacation due to accessibility issues at tourist sites and/or financial difficulties (something which is more common among people with disabilities). What if home swapping was the solution for accommodation? HomeExchange addresses both of these issues:

• An ultra-affordable rate for budget-friendly vacations;
• Over 57,000 accessible homes for people with reduced mobility (PRM): a large number of HomeExchange members are committed to welcoming individuals with mobility issues and/or those who use wheelchairs.

Find an Accessible Home for People with Reduced Mobility in Just a Few Clicks

For people with reduced mobility, preparing for a vacation is often discouraging, particularly due to the difficulties in finding suitable accommodation. On HomeExchange, searching for a suitable home is made easier with the "Wheelchair Accessible" filter.

By using this search filter, you will have access to all accommodations that can host people with reduced mobility and meet the following five criteria:

• Accessible entrance (no steps or obstacles).
• Sufficient space to move around in a wheelchair and turn it easily, especially in the bedroom, bathroom and toilet.
• Door width greater than 90 cm, to allow free movement in a wheelchair.
• Ground floor with at least one bedroom, one bathroom, and accessible toilets without stairs or steps.
• Host availability, to discuss the specific needs of guests with reduced mobility.

Other criteria can also be considered, such as: accessible parking space, grab bars in the shower or toilet, walk-in shower etc. Since everyone’s needs are specific, feel free to contact the hosts to ensure the layout of their home will suit your needs.

Change Starts with Us!

As a player in the tourism industry, we recognize the importance of our role in promoting accessible tourism for all. HomeExchange is committed to raising awareness within our community on these issues, as well as among our employees:

• We raise awareness within our community with a guide on Accessible Housing for People with Reduced Mobility, as well as the creation of a discussion and support group called "People with reduced mobility."
• On the occasion of the European Disability Employment Week 2024, we have enrolled all HomeExchange employees in a training course on the employment of people with disabilities.
• To raise awareness among employees about inclusion, we also organize internal conferences on the topic, as well as a meeting with a Paralympic athlete.

Home Swapping and Reduced Mobility: Testimonials from Our Members

“We hosted an Italian couple, and the gentleman was in a wheelchair. Everything went great—our house is on one level, so they were able to fully enjoy their stay. The lady had reserved a patient lift, which a local company delivered to the house, and we returned it after they left. It was a really wonderful exchange, and they wrote me a beautiful thank-you message.” – Ju

“I have a son with an oral sensitivity disorder (hypersensitivity to textures), and HomeExchange has been a lifesaver for us. After stays in hotels where nothing was suitable for my son to eat properly, we finally found a solution with well-equipped homes. Our vacations have completely changed!” – Hélène

“As there are also invisible disabilities, and being affected myself, I must say that HomeExchange allows me to travel much better (and more) while accommodating my specific needs. It’s a true privilege that I enjoy to the fullest.” – Sophie

Source : *UNWTO