ACCORDING TO OPINIUM INSURERS INFLATE TRAVEL COVER COSTS BY ¥24,736 FOR DISABLED PEOPLE

The research also looked at the other barriers disabled tourists face whilst travelling, including time inequity, digital accessibility, lack of disabled representation, lack of inclusive design, and lack of knowledge on how to meet the needs of customers with disabilities. 

Two in five disabled people face stressful and unsafe situations when traveling due to lack of accessibility. One in ten disabled people reported feeling unsafe and scared when travelling and one in ten were not able to access a toilet. 

Because of this, feelings of embarrassment, isolation, and being disregarded. Two in five of those experienced something happening to them due to the travel agent/provider not being accessible. Nearly half (48%) said the situation made them feel uncomfortable.

Valuable 500 is the largest global collective of CEOs committed to disability inclusion. High-profile members include Expedia, Airbnb, Heathrow Airport, and British Airways. 

The business collective has produced a 7-point manifesto that each travel industry provider should abide by to ensure best practice. Please register interest to sign up: [email protected] 

The full report is here.

Caroline Casey, Founder, Valuable 500 commented: This research adds to a burgeoning list of discriminations that people with disabilities face day in, day out. When a hotel, restaurant or transport provider is inaccessible you're leaving a proportion of business on the table. 

The global spending power of people with disabilities is estimated to be $13 trillion annually, so the business case for the travel industry to put accessibility first, and not as an afterthought is imperative. This can be rectified by putting disabled staff and consumers at the heart of the business. 

Kathy Martinez, VP for Global Disability Inclusion, Expedia:

"Travel strengthens connections and broadens horizons, yet historic, physical, and societal barriers often limit equitable access to travel. Disability is a natural part of the human condition. Everyone should have the right to travel, no matter their ability. Expedia Group is committed to creating a more open world and lessening equity gaps. By collaborating with our vast network of partners on resources like our Lodging Accessibility Guide, we are able to share best practices and work together towards a collective goal to ensure travellers with disabilities are valued and included." 

Notes to Editors

A sample of 500 Japanese based disabled travellers conducted via Opinium, from 29th August - 10th September 2022. 

Find out more about the Valuable 500 here

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