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I attended the event for the first time last year. I was very afraid that this would be an event where the ‘other’ people were only ‘organic-decor’, but take advantage of great opportunities. Before that, there was a field assessment tour with the People First team, and here I was convinced that it wouldn’t be like that at all. This is finally the kind of event I’ve wanted for a long time: it’s just all kinds of people enjoying each other’s company and programs together. If there’s an obstacle, we’ll work it out together.

What  does this event give me? It always recharges me. I enjoy helping, not only here, not only this way. It is nice to see the joy people living with disabilities and their families feel during this event, for instance when they return after a motorbike ride or from some other venue of the festival. People here, generally, do not have the chance to try the activities that are available here, or they might but do not believe they would be able to take part, however here with our help and encouragement, they can participate. Being able to help this way is a big deal. The fact  that able-bodied and disabled people have the chance to get closer on a day like this is very important. Helping each other in a meaningful way; asking questions rather than making assumptions; having the courage to ask and help; and not considering the other as weird simply because they are different are all important aspects of the event.

I love being a part of such a supportive community and enjoy seeing the old faces among the participants.

Last year was the first time I got an insight into what barrier-free tourism really is. I volunteered to help out the rattle ball players and I hope I did a good job. I had never had any contact with sightless people previously and was very cautious approaching them. I was worried I might react inappropriately to something.

I was surprised to find how good the players were with the rattle ball. Their sense of hearing is incredibly sharp; as soon as the ball moves they become alert. We watched very exciting games, and at the end, we joined in one. This year, I would like to help the team again and get to know them better.

Meeting up in person before the event is a great idea, we can get to know each other better and come up with lots of great ideas. 

It was last year that I first took part in the event. As nobody in my family belongs to the target group of the Barrier-Free Tourism Day, I seldom have to opportunity to meet people with disabilities. So most importantly, this event offers me the chance to meet and talk to them. In addition, I meet them in a situation where I can also be of some help, while they are trying out exciting activities. As I see it, this event is unique, offering activities that are not easily available for people living with  disabilities because of the special infrastructure required.

I think, sensitizing and helping each other is an area where we can always improve, and so I keep working on myself. Participating in this event, I can do it in the company of fantastic people. As I am a trainee teacher, it is important for me to gain insight into this area of life, so I can pass on a good attitude to my students in the future. Last year’s information points were great from this aspect.

Besides volunteering, the various activities gave me an opportunity to relax as well

Last year, I attended the Barrier-free Tourism Day for the first time. Throughout the day, participants were able to try plenty of exciting activities,  exploring the theme of accessible tourism in depth. In addition to professional meetings, the event also offered a wide range of artistic recreational activities, which was really impressive. I also loved the fact that both disabled, and able-bodied people had the opportunity to participate.