To the Mayor of London from Nadia Clarke
Improving Accessible Tourism: Lessons from London’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks
A Disappointing Start: Navigating Inaccessible Information
Accessible tourism aims to make travel experiences inclusive for everyone, but sometimes falls short, as I discovered during the 2019 New Year’s Eve Fireworks in London. As a wheelchair user with cerebral palsy, I booked a spot in the accessible area, a dream event that came with significant expenses, including hotel and transportation for myself and my two PAs. The event information provided was insufficient. The map was not detailed, making it difficult to navigate the area. The tickets indicated “From Waterloo,” but lacked clarity on what this meant, especially considering the tube’s inaccessibility and crowding issues on New Year’s Eve. Clearer, more detailed information is crucial for ensuring accessible tourism truly meets the needs of all travelers.
The Struggle for Basic Facilities
Upon arrival, the lack of accessible facilities was immediately apparent. Arriving slightly early, I found no nearby toilets and had to use facilities at St Thomas’ Hospital, which added stress. Event security denied access to on-site facilities upon arrival, exacerbating the situation. Once inside, the portaloos were substandard: they lacked lighting, toilet roll, and sinks. These conditions posed significant health risks for both me and my PAs. Accessible tourism must prioritize providing suitable, hygienic facilities to ensure a stress-free and safe experience for all.
Navigation Challenges and Lack of Support
The unclear directions continued to hinder our experience. Due to inadequate information and road closures, what was supposed to be a seven-minute walk to the viewing area turned into an hour and a half ordeal. Staff in the area often lacked maps or radios, raising serious safety concerns in case of an emergency. For accessible tourism to be effective, event organizers need to ensure comprehensive information and adequate support, particularly in high-traffic, high-stress situations like major public events.
Inadequate Viewing Area
The designated accessible viewing area fell significantly short of expectations. Placed next to the London Eye, it provided a poor vantage point for the fireworks, which are displayed on or in front of the Eye. This left us with a view obstructed by the very structure we came to see illuminated. With only one accessible viewing area available, this placement was far from ideal. Accessible tourism should include multiple, well-thought-out options to ensure equal enjoyment for all attendees. For instance, an additional viewing area near the Houses of Parliament could offer a much better experience.
Conclusion
Accessible tourism requires thoughtful planning and execution to meet the needs of all travellers. The issues faced during London’s 2019 New Year’s Eve Fireworks highlight significant areas for improvement. From clearer information and adequate facilities to proper navigation support and better viewing options, there’s a pressing need for more inclusive and comprehensive strategies. Ensuring true accessibility in tourism not only reflects the values of equality but also enhances the experience for everyone involved.