PR98992

LONDON, November 28, 2022 /PRNewswire=KYODO JBN/--

- New research from the Valuable 500 reveals that disabled travellers are

paying YEN24,736 more than non-disabled travellers for travel insurance

- Findings also reveal that one in ten of disabled travellers felt unsafe

whilst travelling

New research released shows that disabled tourists are paying YEN24,736 more

than non-disabled customers for travel insurance cover to go on holiday, a

premium compared to those without disabilities.

The findings come at a time when inflation is placing undue pressure on those

with disabilities, who already face significant additional costs in their

day-to-day lives.

The research also looked at the other barriers disabled tourists face whilst

travelling, including time inequity, digital accessibility, lack of disabled

representation, lack of inclusive design, and lack of knowledge on how to meet

the needs of customers with disabilities.

Two in five disabled people face stressful and unsafe situations when traveling

due to lack of accessibility. One in ten disabled people reported feeling

unsafe and scared when travelling and one in ten were not able to access a

toilet.

Because of this, feelings of embarrassment, isolation, and being disregarded.

Two in five of those experienced something happening to them due to the travel

agent/provider not being accessible. Nearly half (48%) said the situation made

them feel uncomfortable.

Valuable 500 is the largest global collective of CEOs committed to disability

inclusion. High-profile members include Expedia, Airbnb, Heathrow Airport, and

British Airways.

The business collective has produced a 7-point manifesto that each travel

industry provider should abide by to ensure best practice. Please register

interest to sign up: travelmanifesto@thevaluable500.com

The full report is here

[https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1955657/Japan_Travel_Report.pdf].

Caroline Casey, Founder, Valuable 500 commented: This research adds to a

burgeoning list of discriminations that people with disabilities face day in,

day out. When a hotel, restaurant or transport provider is inaccessible you're

leaving a proportion of business on the table.

The global spending power of people with disabilities is estimated to be $13

trillion annually, so the business case for the travel industry to put

accessibility first, and not as an afterthought is imperative. This can be

rectified by putting disabled staff and consumers at the heart of the business.

Kathy Martinez, VP for Global Disability Inclusion, Expedia:

"Travel strengthens connections and broadens horizons, yet historic, physical,

and societal barriers often limit equitable access to travel. Disability is a

natural part of the human condition. Everyone should have the right to travel,

no matter their ability. Expedia Group is committed to creating a more open

world and lessening equity gaps. By collaborating with our vast network of

partners on resources like our Lodging Accessibility Guide, we are able to

share best practices and work together towards a collective goal to ensure

travellers with disabilities are valued and included."

Notes to Editors

A sample of 500 Japanese based disabled travellers conducted via Opinium, from

29th August - 10th September 2022.

Find out more about the Valuable 500 here [https://www.thevaluable500.com/]

SOURCE: Valuable 500