- New research from the Valuable 500 reveals that disabled travellers are 
paying YEN24,736 more than non-disabled travellers for travel insurance

- Findings also reveal that one in ten of disabled travellers felt unsafe 
whilst travelling 

New research released shows that disabled tourists are paying YEN24,736 more 
than non-disabled customers for travel insurance cover to go on holiday, a 
premium compared to those without disabilities.

The findings come at a time when inflation is placing undue pressure on those 
with disabilities, who already face significant additional costs in their 
day-to-day lives.

The research also looked at the other barriers disabled tourists face whilst 
travelling, including time inequity, digital accessibility, lack of disabled 
representation, lack of inclusive design, and lack of knowledge on how to meet 
the needs of customers with disabilities. 

Two in five disabled people face stressful and unsafe situations when traveling 
due to lack of accessibility. One in ten disabled people reported feeling 
unsafe and scared when travelling and one in ten were not able to access a 
toilet. 

Because of this, feelings of embarrassment, isolation, and being disregarded. 
Two in five of those experienced something happening to them due to the travel 
agent/provider not being accessible. Nearly half (48%) said the situation made 
them feel uncomfortable.

Valuable 500 is the largest global collective of CEOs committed to disability 
inclusion. High-profile members include Expedia, Airbnb, Heathrow Airport, and 
British Airways. 

The business collective has produced a 7-point manifesto that each travel 
industry provider should abide by to ensure best practice. Please register 
interest to sign up: travelmanifesto@thevaluable500.com 

The full report is here 
[https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1955657/Japan_Travel_Report.pdf].

Caroline Casey, Founder, Valuable 500 commented: This research adds to a 
burgeoning list of discriminations that people with disabilities face day in, 
day out. When a hotel, restaurant or transport provider is inaccessible you're 
leaving a proportion of business on the table. 

The global spending power of people with disabilities is estimated to be $13 
trillion annually, so the business case for the travel industry to put 
accessibility first, and not as an afterthought is imperative. This can be 
rectified by putting disabled staff and consumers at the heart of the business. 

Kathy Martinez, VP for Global Disability Inclusion, Expedia:

"Travel strengthens connections and broadens horizons, yet historic, physical, 
and societal barriers often limit equitable access to travel. Disability is a 
natural part of the human condition. Everyone should have the right to travel, 
no matter their ability. Expedia Group is committed to creating a more open 
world and lessening equity gaps. By collaborating with our vast network of 
partners on resources like our Lodging Accessibility Guide, we are able to 
share best practices and work together towards a collective goal to ensure 
travellers with disabilities are valued and included." 

Notes to Editors

A sample of 500 Japanese based disabled travellers conducted via Opinium, from 
29th August - 10th September 2022. 

Find out more about the Valuable 500 here [https://www.thevaluable500.com/]

SOURCE: Valuable 500