Providers and platforms, such as leichter Reisen AG and So barrierefrei erleben GmbH (English: Accessible Experiences) provide information and assistance pertaining to accessible travel. Most of these travel destinations are in Germany and are selected based on specific criteria to be included in the respective catalog. Cities and regions must demonstrate a willingness to address accessibility concerns and include them in a marketing plan to be a valid choice for leichter reisen.
The (online) magazine barrierefrei erleben partly relies on a certification system, but also turns to personal experiences and recommendations, which are critical to facilitate customized options that suit accessibility needs. The goal is to “present people with mild to severe disabilities with the most beautiful excursion and travel destinations. We also want to continually raise the level of awareness of tourism service providers on the importance of making travel accessible to everyone," says co-founder Daniel Wolf. For example, Barrierefrei erleben collects information for water lovers to spend their vacation at Chiemsee (a lake in Bavaria, Germany), where accessible swimming is among the many options the destination has to offer. "But it doesn't matter whether you travel by train, car, plane, bike or ship – tourists should have access to all options," says Wolf.
Those who prefer winter sports can turn to the Freizeit Para-Special Outdoorsports (PSO) adaptive ski school for skiing lessons for people with disabilities. Their motto “Geht nicht, gibt’s nicht” translates to "Nothing is impossible", as people with physical disabilities and learning difficulties (so-called "mental disabilities") can choose between monoskis, bi skis, and handheld outriggers (crutches) to enjoy the freedom of skiing in the Schladming-Dachstein ski region. It’s the perfect destination for those who crave active and adventurous vacations.