What is stopping the process? Analysis of obstacles to accessible tourism from a stakeholders' perspective

People with disabilities still encounter many hurdles when traveling. This study aims at identifying the factors hindering the development of accessibility in tourist destinations. To this end, we developed a stakeholder analysis using the Spanish Costa Blanca as a case study. Employing a qualitative approach, insights from accessible tourism stakeholders were gathered. Data was collected through 83 semi-structured interviews. The research revealed instances of non-collaborative relationships and conflicts among stakeholders, which are acting as obstacles to accessible tourism. Among others, discrimination by firms and non-disabled customers to tourists with disabilities, inconsistencies in legislation, or challenges associated with the implementation of Universal Design. • There are many instances of non-collaboration and conflicts among stakeholders. • Discrimination to PwD exist among companies and non-disabled customers. • Universal design is seen as unappealing. Companies decided not to implement it. • Normalization of non-accessible places by PwD reduces pressure actions. • Supply agents justify their accessible tourism skepticism on investing risks.