Creative Commons

This dissertation was written as part of the MSc in Hospitality and Tourism Management at the International Hellenic University. Tourism industry has become one of the most important industries in the world. The Internet, the emergence of low cost airlines, Social Networks and the development of collaborative consumptions had as a result the increase of people traveling worldwide. A market segment, the disabled market, though has been neglected by the industry since traditionally these individuals are considered to have no desire for traveling. The disabled market has the same desires as other consumers when traveling is concerned. But in order to travel they need accessible products and services and the tourism industry till now has failed to accommodate their needs. Gradually, tourism stakeholders have accepted the importance of this market and they are trying to address their demands. This survey aims to determine the travel behavior of disabled people and the main challenges that this group faces when traveling. By having a better understanding of their travel patterns we could formulate appropriate suggestion that would improve their traveling experience.