Bordeaux, France, has been recognised as a best practice by the Sustainable EU Tourism project for its inclusive and accessible tourism strategy. Faced with the challenge of ensuring tourism growth did not exclude people with disabilities or those in vulnerable situations, the city launched a series of initiatives to promote equality and accessibility. Central to this effort is the Agora Forum, a participatory platform involving residents, social organisations, and tourism stakeholders.

Key solutions include the Bordeaux Accessible Guide, which provides detailed information on accessible accommodations, restaurants, and attractions. The city has also invested in barrier-free public transport, including trams, buses, and river shuttles. Cultural institutions like the Cité du Vin Museum offer multisensory experiences, and innovative experiences such as tandem bicycles for visually impaired visitors have been introduced.

Bordeaux has been awarded the “Destination for All” label and has numerous establishments certified with the “Tourisme & Handicap” label. The Solid’AIR programme, launched in 2023, connects tourism providers with social workers to offer leisure opportunities to low-income families and victims of domestic violence. Digital tools like TOOLIB and Mobalink enhance access to information and services.

This best practice is important because it demonstrates how inclusive tourism strategies can foster social equity, improve quality of life for residents, and enhance the visitor experience. Bordeaux’s approach shows that accessibility is not only a moral imperative but also a driver of sustainable tourism development.

For more details on the key challenges the destination has faced, and the solutions implemented to address them, please refer to the attached document.

#Destination management #Sustainable tourism #Adaptation strategies #Travel technology #Community engagement #Stakeholder engagement #Tourism development #Public transportation #Innovation in tourism