Turismo inclusivo: acessibilidade e sua importância para o turismo em Natal/RN

Abstract

This study aims to analyze how tourist accessibility is defined in the city of Natal/RN, focusing on the inclusion of people with disabilities (PwD). The research is based on the principle that accessibility is a right guaranteed by national laws, such as the Brazilian Inclusion Law (LBI), of extreme importance for democratizing tourism. The study methodology uses a bibliographic analysis on accessibility and inclusion in the tourist area, with the application of an online questionnaire, through Google Forms, aimed at people with disabilities or even those who live directly with them, family or friends. Eleven responses were collected during the period in which the questionnaire was available. The data obtained in this article show that, although the city presents isolated initiatives in some accommodation establishments, such as targeted structural reforms, it is currently possible to identify a series of challenges present in the development of the tourist trade in the city of Natal/RN. The problems highlighted by users, according to the survey, include the lack of access ramps, adapted elevators and other items that end up becoming essential for the stay, in addition to the lack of attention to the preparation and training of professionals working in the tourism segment. The feedback obtained through the online questionnaire showed disappointment with the lack of support for planning the trip and during the stay, in addition to the lack of accessible transportation and barriers in communication and service. Despite being a well-known tourist destination, in view of the results obtained, the interviewees point out that the city needs to evolve and make significant improvements in relation to accessibility, both in the public and private sectors. Therefore, inclusive tourism is more than a legal and ethical obligation; it is also an economic and social potential that presents itself as a rapid response to the needs of people with disabilities or reduced mobility, adopting positive practices related to inclusive tourism, such as the creation of accessible itineraries, professional training for employees, improvements in infrastructure and access. Actions like these enable democratic and inclusive tourism, causing greater tourist promotion for the city and thus generating more jobs and income.