The European Commission announced the EU needs to improve accessible tourism for senior citizens and people with special needs. On 11 November, the European Commission announced that it decided to dedicate this year’s European Destinations of Excellence (EDEN) awards to accessible tourism destinations. Representatives of 19 destinations from all over Europe received EDEN trophies for their efforts to offer accessible features and equipment such as walking paths adapted to wheelchairs or prams, specially adapted bike rentals as well as adapted access to beaches and mountains.

The EDEN winners will be, Kaunertal Valley (Austria), Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve (Belgium), Stancija 1904 – Svetvinčenat (Croatia), Polis Chrysochous Municipality (Cyrpus), Lipno (Czech Republic), Haapsalu City (Estonia), Morvan Regional Natural Park (France), Municipality of Marathon (Greece), Kaposvár and the Zselic area (Hungary), Cavan Town and environs (Ireland), Pistoia (Italy), Liepāja (Latvia), Telšiai (Lithuania), Horsterwold (The Netherlands),  Przemyśl (Poland),  Jurilovca (Romania), Laško (Slovenia).

According to the official document from the European Parliament, Jurilovca sits in the middle of a fairy tale landscape neighbouring the Black Sea and the Danube Delta, a unique wetland area and UNESCO world heritage site known for its stunning scenery and biodiversity. Also, the local authorities are keen to welcome visitors of all ages from across Europe. Efforts are being made to ensure that all visitors can have an equally enjoyable holiday here. The local tourist centre is on hand to help all visitors find answers to any questions they may have during their stay in the region.

Moreover, on 3 to 4 December, the European Commission – DG Justice and DG Enterprise and Industry – will celebrate the “European Day of Persons with Disabilities” and the “European Tourism Day” 2013 with the Joint Conference on “Accessible Tourism in Europe”. The aim of this two-fold event will be to raise awareness on the right of everybody to have equal access to tourism services and destinations and to present some success stories and best practices in the field.

Photo courtesy of www.jurilovca.wordpress.com

Oana Vasiliu

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