The Importance and Popularity of Tourism Among People with Disabilities in Poland

Abstract

Purpose. The aim of the study is to show the preferences, behaviours and tourist expectations of disabled people living in cities. Method. The research was carried out at the beginning of 2018 on a sample of 636 people (having a medical certificate of disability) using the questionnaire technique. The interviewers were second-year students of first-degree studies at Warsaw WULS (SGGW), Tourism and Recreation. Findings. The most popular were domestic trips, especially short-term ones. The respondents most often took one or two trips a year, the purpose of which was mainly rest and sightseeing. The determinant of choosing a particular travel offer was primarily the price. The trip was mainly organized by the interested people themselves or their families. The respondents' journeys were carried out mainly in the summer. Coastal and mountain destinations were the most popular. The respondents most often spent time there walking and going to social meetings. Research and conclusions limitations. Due to the method of selection of the respondents and their number, the research group is not representative and the results should not refer to the general disabled in Poland. Practical implications. The results of the research may prove to be helpful for travel agencies in order to better adapt offers for people with disabilities living in cities. Originality. Research on tourist activity of people with disabilities is rarely undertaken in Poland, and its scope is varied, hence, it is difficult to determine the originality of research and its results. Type of paper. The article presents the results of empirical research.