THE IMPACT OF INCLUSIVE TOURISM ON THE EMOTIONAL STATE OF TOURISTS WITH DISABILITIES

Abstract

Introduction. Tourism is gradually turning into a profitable branch of commercial activity, which is actively developing due to the popularization of travel among the population of different countries. With the expansion of the circle of states that consider tourism as a priority area of economic growth following the example of successful tourist regions, competition between destinations is increasing. This encourages managers of tourist destinations to implement relationship marketing strategies aimed at establishing long-term relationships with tourists and forming their loyalty.Therefore, the appeal to the emotional component of the tourist experience as a tool for attracting tourist flows to specific territories is becoming increasingly relevant.Purpose of the article. The purpose of our study is the impact of inclusive tourism on the emotional state of tourists with disabilities.Scientific novelty. The scientific novelty of the study lies in: – Determining the role of the emotional sphere as a key factor in the motivation and loyalty of tourists with disabilities; – Generalization of the typology of emotional barriers that arise in tourists with disabilities at different stages of a tourist trip; – Identification of correlations between the level of inclusiveness of tourist infrastructure and changes in the emotional state of people with disabilities during travel; – Developing practical recommendations for inclusive tourism operators on creating a positive emotional climate within the destination.Conclusions. To create complete and satisfactory tourist experiences for tourists with disabilities, it is necessary to combine technical accessibility with emotional support and informative openness; to ensure empathetic training of personnel, the ability to take an individual approach; to form an inclusive social culture in destinations where the tourist feels included and equal. This will contribute not only to gaining loyalty and repeat visits, but also to supporting the sustainable development of inclusive tourism as a socially responsible industry.