Portugal has become the first country in the world to be named an ‘Accessible Tourism Destination’ by the World Tourism Organization (WTO).
The announcement was made by the Ministry of Economy on Wednesday after the distinction was awarded to Portugal during the 23rd WTO General Assembly in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
“Portugal is the only country to receive this distinction, which is being awarded for the first time this year and which recognises Portugal’s efforts to promote accessibility within the tourism sector,” said the ministry, adding that “in Europe alone there are 90 million tourists with special mobility needs.”
Says Secretary of State of Tourism Ana Mendes Godinho, this award will help “boost Portugal into becoming the world’s most inclusive destination”.
However, there is still “a lot to be done” to ensure that Portugal remains a welcoming place for holidaymakers with mobility issues, Godinho admits.
Ana Sofia Antunes, Portugal’s Secretary of State for the Inclusion of People With Disabilities, also celebrated the accolade and said that it recognises the “solid and structured” work that the country has carried out.
She said that a programme called ‘Mais Acesso’ (More Access) is due to be launched soon, granting around €15 million to projects that aim to improve accessibilities for people with mobility limitations in 50 municipalities and identify the general accessibility conditions of public buildings.
“This government has taken secure steps in the direction of transforming Portugal into a truly inclusive country. There’s no turning back now,” Antunes added.
In 2016, the government had already launched a programme entitled ‘All for All’ which aimed to improve the country’s accessibility and create accessible tourism itineraries.
Data from the Ministry of Economy shows that 116 projects have been backed so far, representing an investment of around €20 million – €14 million of which was covered by the government.
Among the works that were carried out was the creation of accessible pathways at important monuments such as the Castelo de São Jorge in Lisbon, the Convento de Cristo in Tomar and the Caves Calém in Vila Nova de Gaia.
Portugal, along with Spain, has also launched a website and app called ‘Tur4all’ which details the hotels, restaurants and monuments that are accessible for people with mobility issues.
