Summary:
This dissertation was designed and implemented in order to create a digital map of Crete, which will aim at promoting the island to visitors with disabilities and more specifically to those who have physical and sensory disabilities. Initially, an attempt was made to understand the disability itself, in combination with the needs and requirements needed, for the smooth integration of people with disabilities into society. The priorities given by the disabled in a possible trip were sought, while an attempt was made to determine the accessibility or not of Crete. The research process was based on both questionnaires and interviews.
Then, based on the results of the research, followed the creation of the website itself, which was based on the model of the tourism campaign of the Region of Crete, "Incredible Crete". "Incredible Crete +" was designed to include all the accessible destinations of Crete, which, through information, images, and exact locations, it will suggest to potential visitors with disabilities. At the same time, the website was designed in such a way as to allow and motivate the essential interaction and participation of users. Thus, through "Incredible Crete +", the user can comment and evaluate the proposed destinations, while he has the opportunity to suggest new places he wants to visit, but the lack of accessibility does not allow him.
In closing, regarding the ways of promoting "Incredible Crete +", it was decided that the Region of Crete can play an important role, since it already has a tourist campaign for the island, having formed its own audience. In addition, the communication marketing of the website will be based on a "mix" of techniques, such as social media, e-mail marketing, discount - online coupons, as well as the distribution of brochures. Finally, a key tool for promoting "Incredible Crete +" is the use of user-generated content.
Keywords:
Accessible tourism, tourism for all, communication management, social marketing, user-generated content
