The DATIS project, active in the cross-border area between Slovenia and Italy, is conducting a survey as part of its strategic activities on the travel habits and experiences of people with various types of disabilities within the tourism sector. The purpose of this survey is to collect valuable data on the needs, challenges, and expectations of people with different forms of disabilities in tourism activities, allowing for the strategic improvement and adaptation of the accessibility of tourism services and products for this target group.
Survey Questionnaire on the Travel Habits and Experiences of People with Different Disabilities in Tourism
The survey is conducted through a questionnaire (both in digital and physical form), available in three languages – Slovenian, Italian, and English – making it accessible to a wide target audience in the cross-border region. The questionnaire covers a variety of thematic areas, including:
- Basic Information: demographic data about participants, such as age, education, place of residence, and type of disability.
- Travel Expectations: the importance of travel and holidays for the participants, their reasons for travelling, and preferred destinations.
- Travel Planning: how participants gather information about accessibility, the sources of information they most frequently use, and the time required to prepare and plan their trips based on personal accessibility needs for routes, accommodation, and activities.
- Online Information Accessibility: the devices and tools participants use to access various online tourism information, and the obstacles encountered in accessing these resources.
- Travel Experiences: participants' experiences related to the accessibility of tourist accommodation, public transport, and their overall assessment of their travel experiences.
- Recommendations: participants’ suggestions for improving accessibility in the tourism sector and recommendations for enhancing online information accessibility.
The questionnaire is anonymous, and data confidentiality is assured in compliance with GDPR. Completion of the questionnaire may be assisted by family members or carers to ensure the broadest possible participation.
Objectives of the Research and Integration into the Project Strategy
The results of this research will form the basis for the development of the final strategic document of the DATIS project. The collected data will be analysed to identify key barriers faced by users with different disabilities and to develop recommendations for improving the accessibility and usability of both digital and physical tourism content in the cross-border area.
The University of Trieste will use the results to prepare professional guidelines for inclusive tourism, with particular attention to digital accessibility, which will be included in the project's final strategic document. By obtaining concrete data directly from users, a long-term direction can be established that will help strengthen sustainable tourism policies and adapt services for greater inclusion of people with different disabilities.
