Spain is set to become a leader in accessible tourism, driven by a new campaign.
Spain is poised to lead the way in accessible tourism, as highlighted during the World Travel Market 2024. The country’s commitment to improving travel for disabled individuals is encapsulated in the ‘Spain for All’ campaign, spearheaded by Ade Adepitan. Adepitan, a renowned TV presenter and wheelchair basketball player, was appointed as the ambassador of this initiative earlier in the year. His dedication is rooted in a desire to make Spain the ultimate destination for disabled travellers, challenging other countries to follow suit.
In his address to attendees, Adepitan expressed a vision for Spain to become not just the best tourist destination at present but of all time. He envisions Spain as a pioneering entity in crafting a blueprint for accessibility that transcends national boundaries. According to him, ‘We want to be the leaders and the blueprint for all other nations to follow.’ Such ambitious goals underscore the transformative potential of this campaign not only within Spain but globally.
Reflecting on his decision to champion this cause, Adepitan remarked that it was an intuitive choice given his affection for the nation and his broader mission to ‘open up the world’ for those with disabilities. His personal journey, dating back to a childhood where travel seemed inaccessible, fuels a mission to revolutionise the sector, making travel possible for all.
Acknowledging the road to inclusivity is paved with potential pitfalls, Adepitan encourages industry leaders not to shy away from attempts to enhance accessibility. Mistakes, he argues, are part of the process, emphasising that it is the efforts to address and rectify these mistakes that truly count. His sentiments were echoed by Angus Drummond, CEO of Limitless Travel, who favours a proactive approach to accessibility improvements, advocating for trial and error over inaction.
Spain is on the brink of becoming a model for accessible tourism, a move that could inspire global change.