Towards Inclusive Tourism in Vietnam: Addressing Challenges and Advancing Accessibility for All
This research endeavors to foster an inclusive tourism industry in Vietnam by investigating its current state, pinpointing key challenges, and proposing viable solutions. Through meticulous analysis, specific gaps and obstacles are identified, paving the way for strategic formulation. Leveraging netnographic research and field surveys, insights are garnered from a diverse array of stakeholders, including disabled individuals, disability-focused organizations, government authorities, and tourism businesses. In-depth interviews with 31 participants provide invaluable firsthand perspectives on accessible tourism. The research findings illuminate prominent barriers, encompassing deficient infrastructure accessibility, a scarcity of trained personnel catering to disabled customers, and limited information about accessible services. These findings underscore the pressing need for targeted efforts to enhance inclusivity within Vietnam’s tourism sector. Addressing these issues is instrumental in propelling Vietnam towards a more accessible and equitable tourism landscape. By embracing accessible tourism, Vietnam not only offers equal opportunities for people with disabilities but also elevates its tourism industry, attracting a diverse range of visitors and contributing to the country’s overall economic and social development. Through dedicated efforts and the implementation of proposed solutions, Vietnam can pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future in the field of accessible tourism.
Keywords: inclusive tourism; accessible tourism; challenges; strategic solutions; Vietnam