A new online platform that will make Greek islands accessible to tourists with disabilities is scheduled to launch on a trial basis in June, by the Greek non-profit organization Fertile Line, Microsoft Hellas and ATCOM.
The announcement of this new platform was made on May 21, World Accessibility Awareness Day, and will begin operating this month under the name "Extra Milers".
The aim of this platform is to create a complete network that will provide the necessary information to people who have permanent or temporary mobility problems, so that they can access and enjoy the beautiful areas of Greece without facing difficulties during their holidays.
The "Extra Milers" platform includes a website and an app and is aimed primarily at people with visual and mobility impairments. It is in the final stages of development and will be available for free once completed.
Interested parties will be able to create a profile on the platform, depending on their individual needs, and will have access to the available services that interest them.
The first areas that "Extra Milers" will include are the islands of Syros, Chios and Rhodes, while more destinations will be added at a later stage.
The platform will also be enhanced with new applications based on artificial intelligence (for example, speech-to-text applications, facial recognition and text analysis), in order to provide its users with a more complete experience.
“Extra Milers” will also try to attract “responsible tourists” – travelers who take action to make tourism more sustainable. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), responsible tourism has grown by 40% in recent years.
The platform will operate under the auspices of the Greek Ministry of Tourism and is being developed with the help of organizations that support people with disabilities.
