A sustainable destination is an accessible destination: examining the relationship as a remedy to seasonality

Abstract

PurposeThe aim of this article is to examine Cyprus, an island highly dependent on tourism, by bringing together the aspects of accessibility as a holistic approach to sustainable tourism development and exploiting the potential for mitigating seasonality problems. Accessible tourism has remarkable potential as an emerging market in providing for the holistic development of destinations. Additionally, it can act as a market that can provide year-round demand through activities for people with disabilities (PwD). Seasonality is a significant issue, especially in small island destinations (SIDs) as there is a prevailing mass tourism mindset with a limited tourism season.Design/methodology/approachIn total, 15 semi-structured interviews took place with tourism practitioners, the tourism industry's main stakeholders, and representatives of disability associations in Cyprus.FindingsThe study results suggest that a destination developed to satisfy the needs of PwD is beneficial in many aspects. Additionally, the increasing market of PwD offers an opportunity to address the problem of seasonality. However, this requires the development of a sustainable framework for tourism, including those facilities and activities that can satisfy the needs of PwD and provide opportunities for extended traveling throughout the year.Originality/valueThe study deals with an original topic of discussion since it examines accessibility in sustainable development and the effect on seasonality in SIDs.

Search strategies in accessible tourism, barrier-free tourism, disabled tourism and easy access tourism literature

“…There are as many interpretations of the concept of AT as there are authors who have contributed to the subject (Darcy and Dickson, 2009; Devile and Kastenholz, 2018; Liasidou et al , 2022; Pasca et al , 2022; Qiao et al , 2023; Rahmafitria et al , 2023; Scheyvens and Biddulph, 2018; Thomas, 2018). Among them, the proposal by Darcy and Buhalis (2011) enjoys widespread acceptance:…”

“…It recognises all individuals, not solely those with disabilities, as beneficiaries (Darcy and Dickson, 2009; Rubio-Escuderos et al , 2021). Furthermore, it underscores the application of universal design principles and the necessity for collaboration among tourism stakeholders as critical elements (Liasidou et al , 2022; Michopoulou et al , 2015; Porto et al , 2019; Shahzalal and Elgammal, 2023). Thus, this definition reflects the paradigm shift in disability understanding, transitioning from a medical model – that views disability as an inherent problem within individuals – towards a social model – that underlines the adaptation of the environment to facilitate the ability of all individuals to function with dignity and independence – (Buhalis and Michopoulou, 2011; Gillovic et al , 2018; Zajadacz, 2015).…”

“…Beyond its social advantages, AT also offers substantial economic benefits for the tourism industry, given its capacity to inclusively engage a broad demographic, including senior travellers, families and individuals with temporary or permanent disabilities (Burnett and Baker, 2001; Chrysikou et al , 2018; Domínguez Vila et al , 2015; Israeli, 2002; Lee et al , 2012; Michopoulou and Buhalis, 2013; Porto et al , 2019; Qiao et al , 2022; Ray and Ryder, 2003; Small et al , 2012). Furthermore, AT stimulates the creation of sustainable infrastructure, products and services aligned with the principles of universal design (Darcy et al , 2010; Piramanayagam et al , 2019; Sen and Mayfield, 2004) and the United Nations sustainable development goals (Gillovic and McIntosh, 2020; Liasidou et al , 2022; Pasca et al , 2022).…”

Introduction: how could the Republic of Cyprus reduce the impact of seasonal tourism on long-term sustainable development?

“…in the Republic of Cyprus Liasidou et al (2022c) consider whether a sustainable destination is an accessible destination and examine this relationship as a possible remedy to seasonality. As a growing industry, accessible tourism has incredible potential to help enhance locations in a holistic way.…”

“…Liasidou et al. (2022c) consider whether a sustainable destination is an accessible destination and examine this relationship as a possible remedy to seasonality.…”