Thailand sets standards for accessible tourism at WSAT 2025

Thailand sets standards for accessible tourism at WSAT 2025

Thailand took a significant step towards inclusive tourism at the World Summit on Accessible Tourism 2025 (WSAT 2025), held October 5-7 in Turin, Italy. The Thai delegation, led by Mr. Nithi “Nutty” Subhongsang, Managing Director of Nutty Adventure and Vice President of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), presented the enormous importance of accessible travel for all people, including persons with disabilities and seniors. TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool in her speech emphasized Thailand's vision of making tourism accessible to all, and the conference's theme, “Destination for All,” reflected this approach.

A highlight of the event were various keynotes and panel discussions that highlighted the challenges and successes in the area of ​​barrier-free tourism. The focus was on building an open, inclusive and accessible tourism system that takes into account not only the needs of people with disabilities, but also those of seniors and families. Mr. Nithi presented concrete approaches that Thailand is pursuing to achieve these goals. Recognized for its pioneering work in this area, Nutty Adventure received a total of three major awards at the 15th Thailand Tourism Awards 2025, including the Thailand Sustainability Award, in recognition of their commitment to creating meaningful experiences for visually impaired travelers and wheelchair users.

Small steps, big impact

Improving access for all requires not only large initiatives, but also small, community-based projects that prove highly impactful. How Tourism Watch describes, local communities are crucial in organizing barrier-free tourism projects. In Sukhothai, for example, barriers were broken down by building ramps for wheelchair users and creating wood carvings for blind visitors. Such measures promote authenticity and enrich local culture.

However, there are many stumbling blocks in the way. Financial concerns and a lack of detailed knowledge in communities can lead to inadequate implementation of accessibility. A community on Phuket planned an accessible tour, but access to an important beach was not guaranteed. To avoid such problems, we are working on workshops to raise awareness of accessibility and sustainability.

A look into the future

Improving accessibility in tourism has not only social but also economic benefits. Studies show that accessible offerings can result in increased tourism revenue and a better reputation for communities. Finally, this also means greater satisfaction for all travelers, as barrier-free travel is a challenge for people with different needs, be they people with disabilities, seniors or families with small children, such as ADAC holds on.

Thailand has already gained valuable experience in implementing barrier-free offers. As part of the “Thai Cooking Experience” program in Ko Kerd in 2024, offers were created specifically for blind, visually impaired and mobility-impaired people. These positive developments show that small changes in projects can have a big impact on accessibility in tourism and ultimately promote a more inclusive society.

The path is clear: with a shared commitment to sustainable and inclusive tourism, Thailand will continue to lead the industry and remain a destination that welcomes people of all ages and needs.