Visit Binghamton is just the latest tourism promotion organization to adopt accessibility as an attraction for tourism. ABC recently added a special section to Visit Binghamton’s website that includes copy, imagery and listings tailored to travelers in search of accessible things to do, places to eat and places to stay.
Such inclusivity makes sense for tourism, an industry that increasingly accommodates niche interests from food to craft beverage to outdoor adventure. The concept of accessible tourism comes with several advantages.
It Increases Tourism
Tourism promotion agencies exist to assist economic development in their communities and regions, attracting big dollars to local economies. This is one of the areas where accessible tourism makes perfect sense as it opens travel to a whole “new” audience.
It Improves Reputation
Promoting accessible tourism establishes a destination as inclusive and more welcoming. Visit Binghamton’s message, for example, is that they “invite everyone to be part of our story.” Accessibility promotion displays an improved experience for all, be they people with mobility issues, the elderly or even families with young children.
It Addresses Legal Compliance
Accessible tourism shows how compliant a community is with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations. It’s a very overt way of showing local businesses and attractions follow the rules.
Tourism promotion agencies exist to assist economic development in their communities and regions, attracting big dollars to local economies.
It Shows Social Responsibility
Accessibility is a social responsibility communities have to make sure everyone is equally represented with dignity. In Greater Binghamton, this inclusive attitude was always embedded in the fabric of the community. It was just a matter of bringing it to light and illustrating how it applies to travelers.
It Gives a Competitive Advantage
In this business of destination marketing, we’re always “competing” with other options travelers have to go and explore. Accessible tourism is one way to carve out another unique draw to an increasingly important audience.
So, kudos to Visit Binghamton for making their destination a little more unique. We’re looking forward to drawing larger crowds, improving community reputation and getting a leg up on competing destinations for our client.