Practical test in the Prosecco hills: Tour group evaluates inclusion in wineries and museums

Vicenza – Amidst vineyards, art galleries, and hotel rooms, a group of travelers is testing the limits of accessibility: From September 17th to 19th, “Un mondo che si muove” (English: “A world that moves”) will travel through the Venetian hills. The initiative puts people with various disabilities in charge of inclusion.

The Fondazione Efesto is organizing the project for the third time, according to a press release. Unlike traditional trips for people with disabilities, this one focuses on the expertise of the participants. "A person with a disability can be an ambassador for inclusion, a volunteer, and a helper for other travelers," explains Matteo Gobbo Trioli, Secretary General of the Foundation. The group specifically assesses whether places are not only accessible but also offer the same experience to all participants, as reported by ildolomiti.it.

An inclusive travel project turns people with disabilities into accessibility experts.

The route leads from the Prosecco hills via Feltre to Vicenza. The first day's itinerary includes vineyards near San Pietro in Feltre and the Rizzarda art gallery. The following day, the group visits the Lattebusche company. Museums, accommodations, and businesses receive direct feedback from the participants regarding weaknesses and areas for improvement.

And there are apparently many such cases: Even large hotel chains often offer only one or two accessible rooms. "The structures are not yet prepared for the idea that people with disabilities can experience a holiday like everyone else," says Gobbo Trioli to ildolomiti.it. It's not just the rules that need to change, but also people's mindsets. However, there are already a few exceptions: The owner of the Hotel Doriguzzi is breaking this pattern and provides twenty rooms for people with disabilities at the same price, from suites to standard rooms.

Traveling to excursion destinations by bus and train remains a challenge

Getting to the destinations remains a key challenge. While Trenitalia offers discounted fares for people with disabilities and allows companions to travel free of charge, Italo does not yet offer the same level of support for companions. The project organizers are therefore calling for a broader perspective on mobility: support should be provided not only to wheelchair users, but to all people who require assistance due to a disability or other limitations. After all, independent travel begins with the ability to travel from one place to another easily and on an equal footing.

Each participant pays for their trip according to their means. Private supporters and local businesses contributed a significant amount this time, which was distributed equally. "The response in the Belluno region was overwhelming: we raised a considerable sum," said Gobbo Trioli. (jaka)