Projects TOURISM+ and LOKRUM4YOU

By project GREENHEALTH

Published on 17 December 2024

Croatia

Jadranska Hrvatska

Dubrovnik

About this good practice

Thanks to these initiatives, Lokrum Island, designated as a Special Reserve for forest vegetation, provides individuals with visual impairments the opportunity to access natural areas. This enables them to fully experience the Special Reserve and reap health benefits.
The primary goals of the projects have been successfully accomplished, which include: 1) Allowing blind and partially sighted individuals to access the protected natural area, 2) Diminishing social isolation among people with disabilities and enhancing their overall well-being, 3) Addressing both architectural and social obstacles to experiencing nature.
The project trained one tourism worker to improve services for blind and partially sighted individuals and employed two persons with disabilities. It created relief maps, tactile postcard models, and organized guided tours highlighting natural and cultural values. Efforts were also made to promote Lokrum Island as an accessible destination for outdoor activities, focusing on its navigable infrastructure for those with visual impairments.
The project TOURISM+ was financed by the Ministry of Tourism and Sport and project LOKRUM4YOU was financed by the Ministry of Culture and Media.

Resources needed

A team consisting of 1 experienced guide, 2 project staff, various assistants including family and friends, 4 NGO members, and several volunteers was required.
Costs include training for tourist worker, salary for project staff, material for tactile models, travel expenses and education.

Evidence of success

Individuals with disabilities eagerly welcome the chance to explore nature that is typically beyond their reach. The Island of Lokrum has become a tourist destination specifically catering to people with disabilities.
In 2022-2023 approximately 500 blind/partially sighted people visited the island.

Potential for learning or transfer

The successful implementation of accessibility initiatives on Lokrum Island has made it a popular destination for individuals with disabilities, particularly benefiting blind and partially sighted visitors. This approach boosts tourism, reduces social isolation, and improves well-being by overcoming architectural and social barriers to nature. This model can serve as an inspiration for other organizations to replicate similar efforts.