Inclusive tourism is an approach that seeks to provide equitable travel opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their background, abilities, or circumstances. It aims to eliminate any hindrances and create access for everyone to explore and appreciate the beauty of travel, from people with disabilities to those from marginalized communities. Inclusive tourism is not just a passing trend, but a conscious effort to remove any barriers and promote equal participation in the tourism industry.

The significance of inclusive tourism cannot be overstated in today's world. With our planet becoming more interconnected, it's crucial to encourage understanding, empathy, and inclusivity within the tourism industry. Embracing diversity and making travel accessible to everyone not only enhances individuals' lives but also fosters cultural exchange, economic growth, and sustainable development on a global scale. However, despite the progress made in promoting inclusivity within the tourism sector, there's still a lot of ground to cover. Many destinations and attractions lack the necessary infrastructure and services to cater to diverse needs effectively. Furthermore, misconceptions and stereotypes continue to hinder progress towards true inclusivity.

This is where the need for a short advance programme for university students becomes apparent. By providing students with a comprehensive understanding of inclusive tourism principles and practices, we empower the next generation of industry leaders to drive positive change. Through experiential learning, interdisciplinary study, and practical application, students can develop the skills and knowledge necessary to advocate for inclusivity within their future careers.

Such a program that helps students recognize and address barriers to accessing tourism can contribute to the broader goal of advancing inclusive tourism worldwide. This program can equip students with the necessary tools to pave the way for a more sustainable and inclusive tourism industry. This, in turn, can lead to a more enriching and equitable travel experience for everyone.

Blended

Politécnico do Cávado e do Ave (IPCA), Portugal NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences (NHL), Netherlands

At the end of this RUN-EU SAP, participants will be able to:

Critically think about the contribution that any individual can offer to society.

Identify opportunities for change and exchange.

Know best practices for innovation to organize inclusive events and even be able to replicate them in other contexts.

Understand the importance of networking and working in an international multidisciplinary team.

Awareness of the crossovers in leisure, tourism, and health care.

Enhance social media skills.

Share cultural traditions and better learn Portuguese, Portugal, and its uniqueness.