Italia-Croatia

29/09/2025

We were proud to participate in Trieste Next, Italy’s leading festival of scientific research and innovation.  This event marked a significant step forward in promoting the principles of Universal Design and increasing public awareness around accessible and inclusive tourism.

Taking part in a festival that connects science, society, and territory allowed us to showcase the core values of SITE in a dynamic and high-impact context. Our presence was aimed not only at sharing research and pilot activities, but also at engaging in meaningful conversations with citizens, institutions, and professionals about how to make tourism experiences more inclusive for all.

At our dedicated space, visitors could explore examples of inclusive communication tools and discover how Universal Design can be applied to public spaces, cultural heritage sites, and travel hubs. The interactive materials, together with the visual presentation of our pilot actions, sparked interest from a diverse audience — from students and families to policy-makers and tourism professionals.

The project featured in panel discussion and presentation, where experts highlighted the social and economic value of accessible tourism. These moments were crucial in building bridges with local actors, collecting feedback, and reinforcing SITE’s role as a reference point for inclusive innovation in the Adriatic region.

Trieste Next proved to be a valuable opportunity for visibility, learning, and dialogue. The event confirmed that there is growing demand — from both public institutions and private operators — for practical tools and concrete solutions to make destinations more welcoming to people with disabilities, elderly travellers, families, and others with specific needs.

What's next?

In the coming weeks, videos of the panel discussions and interviews with speakers will be made available on our YouTube channel. Stay tuned to hear directly from the voices shaping the future of inclusive tourism!