A comparative analysis of tourism experiences between persons with autism and down syndrome

This study compares the tourism experiences of adolescents and adults with severe autism and those with Down syndrome by comparing the tourism experiences of these two groups through two focus group interviews. Focus group interviews with parents of persons with autism and Down syndrome identified four themes: accommodation-based experiences, travel-based experiences, emotional experiences, and destination-based experiences, which were analyzed using QDA Miner software. The findings revealed both similarities and differences. Group 1 (with severe autism) faced more emotional challenges but found storytelling techniques effective in reducing anxiety. In tourism experiences, they displayed habitual buying patterns and adaptive decision-making behavior. Group 2 (with Down syndrome) encountered fewer difficulties and engaged more easily in tourism activities than Group 1. This study provides valuable insights for the tourism field and related disciplines, advancing the understanding of the unique needs of these groups.