Accessibility forms an important part of Cypriot region’s strategy as it rolls out a red-carpet welcome for all, with various initiatives in place, from hotels to beaches and attractions
Larnaka Tourism Board will show off its new branding at WTM London this year, emphasising the region’s authentic character and commitment to sustainable tourism practices.
Dinos Lefkaritis, chairman of the Larnaka Tourism Board, explains: “The new slogan ‘Welcome back’ and the logo featuring a flamingo in flight symbolise our region’s welcoming nature and the familiar bond felt by returning visitors.”
Deputy tourism minister Kostas Koumis has praised the rebranding as more than just a new logo and slogan, calling it “a collective effort and willingness for new beginnings… to be embraced by all who make up the tourist ecosystem of the island”.
As part of the region’s ongoing efforts to welcome all visitors, the Larnaka delegation is eager to talk about initiatives to increase accessibility for tourists.
These include the work being done with charitable organisation Ena Emeis to introduce Braille and audio menus at six of the region’s four- and five-star hotels. These include Golden Bay Beach Hotel, Sandy Beach, Lordos Beach Hotel & Spa, Radisson Blu Hotel Larnaca, Robinson Club Cyprus and E Hotel Spa & Resort.
Also at Sandy Beach Hotel, the tourist board has facilitated an internship for a deaf person to join the pastry department for a month, which they are hoping will pave the way for more opportunities for those with disabilities to work in the tourism industry.
While free beach facilities are being made available to holders of a European Disability Card – the provision of two sunbeds and an umbrella in front row areas of popular beaches. These can be found next to the lifeguard tower, where there is free use of floating wheelchairs, with the supervision of lifeguards.
In addition, LTB is working with the founders of the Ablebook app to increase the number of tourism and hospitality establishments that offer facilities for persons with a disability, with information included on the app, available on the App Store and Google Play. More will be revealed upon its completion by the end of the year.
Watersports, running events and folklore festivals are also on the agenda, with Lefkaritis adding: “Larnaka is alive with folklore festivals, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich traditions, from the coast to the hills.”
Goody bags on the stand this year will have local honey, peppermint tea and plantable pencils.
At WTM London: The Larnaka Tourism Board will share a stand with the Cyprus Deputy Ministry of Tourism, at N3-220