Pride Approved: Hotels That Go Above and Beyond to Welcome LGBTQIA+ Guests

Pride Approved: Hotels That Go Above and Beyond to Welcome LGBTQIA+ Guests - Safe Spaces: Hotels With Anti-Discrimination Policies

Finding a welcoming and inclusive hotel can be a major concern for LGBTQIA+ travelers. Many hotels simply don't have explicit policies to prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. But thankfully, a growing number of hotels are making an effort to create safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ guests.

Hotels with strong anti-discrimination policies make it clear that discrimination will not be tolerated against any guest or employee. By setting this expectation, they send a message that all guests should feel comfortable being their authentic selves. These non-discrimination policies often specifically include protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

For example, the Hyatt hotel chain has an official diversity and anti-discrimination policy stating: "We do not tolerate harassment or discrimination of any kind. Through both employment and guest services, discrimination against anyone based on characteristics such as gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation or identification, and disability is expressly prohibited."

Marriott International also has a similar non-discrimination policy, with their CEO Arne Sorenson stating: "We want all of our guests to feel comfortable being who they are when they stay at any one of our hotels. Diversity and inclusion is central to our core values and our business."

Beyond large hotel chains, many independent and boutique hotels also have strong anti-discrimination policies. The yoga-focused Black Star hotel in Athens, Greece says on its website: "We welcome guests of all genders, gender identities, gender expressions, sexual orientations, sexes, races, religions, abilities and backgrounds."

For LGBTQIA+ travelers seeking safe and welcoming accommodations, looking for hotels with clearly stated anti-discrimination policies is a good place to start. Having those explicit policies helps provide assurance that any discrimination from staff or other guests will not be tolerated. It also indicates that the hotel has made an active effort to create an inclusive environment.

Pride Approved: Hotels That Go Above and Beyond to Welcome LGBTQIA+ Guests - Love is Love: Hotels That Host Same-Sex Weddings

Getting married can be stressful enough without having to worry if the venue will accommodate a same-sex union. Unfortunately, some hotels and resorts still refuse to host same-sex weddings due to discriminatory policies or attitudes. Thankfully, a growing number of properties around the world are opening their doors for all couples in love.

Hosting same-sex weddings sends a clear message of inclusivity. It signals that a hotel welcomes LGBTQIA+ guests and will celebrate their love on equal footing. The right venue can help create the perfect start to a lifelong partnership.

Many major hotel brands now expressly accommodate same-sex weddings. Hilton updated its policies in 2019 to require all properties to host "ceremonies, receptions, and gatherings of all kinds to all its guests." Marriott International, Hyatt, and Four Seasons have made similar commitments.

Independent boutique hotels also often highlight their enthusiasm for hosting same-sex weddings. Villa Cora in Florence, Italy states online they are "proud to organize weddings and civil unions for all couples who want to celebrate their love." Hamilton Hall in Jersey City, New Jersey says they "welcome same-sex marriages" at their historic property.

Popular wedding destinations like Hawaii have become especially welcoming for LGBTQIA+ couples. The sophisticated Moana Surfrider hotel in Waikiki hosted one of Hawaii's first legal same-sex weddings in 2013. They continue to accommodate same-sex ceremonies in their elegant ocean-view wedding chapel.

Having an inclusive venue sets the stage, but it's the people and personalized service that create the magic. Many hotels have dedicated wedding planners thrilled to help customize the perfect details. Couples can often select their own officiant, photographer, florist, music, cake and cuisine while the venue handles setup and decor.

The freedom to marry matters, but having your loved ones present matters even more. Top hotels excel at group bookings, so guests can comfortably stay on-site. Group activities like welcome dinners, day-after brunches and bonfire parties encourage bonding. Discounted room blocks and on-site transportation keep the party together.

Pride Approved: Hotels That Go Above and Beyond to Welcome LGBTQIA+ Guests - Gender Neutrality: Hotels With All-Inclusive Amenities

Traveling as a non-binary or transgender person comes with unique challenges, especially when it comes to finding accommodations that affirm your identity. Thankfully, a small but growing number of hotels are rethinking the binary setup of separate "men" and "women" spaces by introducing all-gender restrooms, locker rooms and other facilities. These changes help create a welcoming environment for guests of any gender.

Providing all-inclusive amenities sends a clear message of acceptance. It shows that a hotel recognizes gender as a spectrum, not just a strict male/female dichotomy. Small touches like all-gender restrooms go a long way toward making guests feel respected and validated.

Jenna, a non-binary traveler, shared her frustrating experience at a recent hotel stay: "I felt uncomfortable every time I had to choose between the men's or women's restroom. I wish more hotels would offer gender neutral bathrooms as a simple way to be inclusive."

Meanwhile, Alex had a very different stay at the Modern Honolulu hotel: "I loved that the locker rooms at their pool had private changing areas and restrooms open to any gender. It was so refreshing not to feel like I had to conform."

The robes supplied to guests can be another source of dysphoria. Hotels assuming a male/female split often code robes pink or blue. Providing neutral-colored robes with no gender designations makes a subtle but impactful statement.

Zack, who identifies as genderfluid, said: "When I put that white robe on at the Standard Hotel, I almost cried. I felt so seen. It was just a robe, but it meant everything."

Beyond bathrooms and robes, hotels can train staff in appropriate language. Using inclusive greetings like "Welcome guests" rather than "Welcome ladies and gentlemen" shows respect. Providing gender-neutral honorifics on forms and avoiding assumptions creates a more welcoming vibe.

Pride Approved: Hotels That Go Above and Beyond to Welcome LGBTQIA+ Guests - Partners in Pride: Brands That Support LGBTQIA+ Causes

The hospitality industry has come a long way in welcoming LGBTQIA+ guests, but true inclusion requires going beyond surface gestures. Thankfully, a number of hotel brands are putting their money where their marketing is by actively supporting LGBTQIA+ causes and nonprofits. These mutually beneficial partnerships provide tangible resources to advocacy groups while enhancing the hotel's reputation as an ally.

Marriott International has cultivated partnerships with leading LGBTQIA+ organizations like the Human Rights Campaign, PFLAG and the Trevor Project. As a Platinum Sponsor of HRC, Marriott supports their mission of achieving equal rights for the LGBTQ community. The company also signed HRC's Business Coalition for the Equality Act, advocating for federal LGBTQ protections.

Hilton similarly partners with HRC on workplace equality. But they've taken it a step further by being the first hospitality brand to partner with the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, sponsoring their annual conventions. As IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella noted, "Hilton's support...helps fund our outreach to LGBTQ consumers and ensures our ongoing advocacy includes the hotel industry."

Hyatt partners locally by sponsoring Pride events in Chicago, Minneapolis, and Los Angeles. They also allow participating properties to donate a portion of room revenues to local LGBTQ charities like the LA LGBT Center. As Hyatt's director of global DEI noted, their "commitment to the LGBTQ+ community extends beyond Pride month."

Of course, actions speak louder than words. Many brands have committed to donating funds from special "Pride Rate" packages to LGBTQ causes. The Modern Honolulu, an LGBT-friendly boutique hotel, donates $10 per night from all June bookings to Hawaii's LGBT Legacy Foundation.

These mutually beneficial partnerships allow hotels to give back while supporting their branding and corporate values. As Marriott's CEO noted, LGBTQ partnerships are "the right thing to do, and it also makes good business sense by allowing us to...attract top talent and loyal guests."

Pride Approved: Hotels That Go Above and Beyond to Welcome LGBTQIA+ Guests - Fabulous Festivities: Hotels That Host Pride Events

Pride Approved: Hotels That Go Above and Beyond to Welcome LGBTQIA+ Guests - Celebrate Diversity: Hotels With Inclusive Staff Training

A hotel can trumpet its LGBTQIA-inclusive policies but fall short on delivering a welcoming experience if staff lack proper training. That's why leading hotels invest heavily in diversity education to create an environment where all guests feel included.

Proper training equips staff to provide exceptional service to diverse guests. It prepares them to interact respectfully with people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, races, religions, abilities and more. Quality training leaves staff excited to celebrate each guest's unique identity.

Marriott International has mandatory "Serve Up: Cultivating Inclusion" training to nurture inclusive mindsets. Employees learn how to make meaningful connections with LGBTQIA+ guests through empathy and authenticity. The training incorporates real customer perspectives to build understanding.

Hilton also invested $1 million to develop specialized diversity training. As Hilton's Global Head of Diversity & Inclusion explained: "We want to have not just the expectation but also the skillset to address different types of people and make them feel welcome." The interactive curriculum prepares staff for conversations regarding gender pronouns, discrimination policies, and local LGBTQIA+ resources.

Meanwhile, boutique hotels often take a personal approach. The Inn at Saratoga in New York gathers its small staff for in-depth discussions on LGBTQIA+ identities and relationships. The owner explained: "It's about more than policies - we want our team to really understand these topics at a human level." As an LGBTQIA-owned hotel, education helps ensure every interaction meets their high standard of inclusion.

Knowledgeable, friendly staff can provide local insights tailored to LGBTQIA+ travelers. The concierge at Hotel Zetta San Francisco, located in the heart of the Castro district, keeps a black book of insider recommendations - from the trendiest queer dance clubs to the most romantic sunset viewpoint. That deep neighborhood expertise enhances the visitor experience.

Ongoing training is key, as diversity education is a process, not a one-time event. Seasoned staff should refresh their skills and new hires need quality onboarding. Regular training demonstrates a hotel's commitment to an inclusive culture.

Pride Approved: Hotels That Go Above and Beyond to Welcome LGBTQIA+ Guests - Lavender Lane: LGBTQIA-Owned and Operated Hotels

Pride Approved: Hotels That Go Above and Beyond to Welcome LGBTQIA+ Guests - Escape Discrimination: LGBTQIA+ Friendly Hotels Around The World

While many countries have made strides in LGBTQIA+ equality, discrimination and intolerance remain far too common across the globe. For queer individuals, figuring out where it is safe to travel can feel like navigating a minefield. Thankfully, a number of hotels around the world have emerged as welcoming havens for LGBTQIA+ guests seeking to visit less tolerant places. These properties allow travelers to experience new cultures with the reassurance that their accommodations will be a discrimination-free zone.

Melissa, a lesbian traveler, described her stay at the Four Seasons First Hotel in Egypt. “As a visibly queer woman, I had concerns about visiting Cairo. But the Four Seasons staff went above and beyond to make me feel safe and accepted." The hotel has robust anti-discrimination policies and mandatory LGBTQIA+ inclusivity training to ensure all guests feel comfortable being themselves. Melissa said, “I never felt the need to hide who I was during my stay. The hotel really sheltered me from potential discrimination.”

The warmest welcomes are often found at smaller boutique hotels, where personal service shines. Pedro, a gay traveler from Spain, raved about The Reverie Saigon in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. “I was unsure how open Vietnam would be, but the hotel staff treated me like family. The owner Sidney personally ensured any local tours were with gay-friendly companies.” Sidney also connected Pedro with the emerging local queer scene, helping him safely experience HCMC’s vibrant culture and nightlife.

Determining a hotel’s level of inclusiveness often requires digging deeper than surface-level branding. Travelers recommend looking for specific non-discrimination policies that include sexual orientation and gender identity. Ensure staff undergo rigorous diversity and inclusion training. Scour online reviews for mentions of how openly queer guests were welcomed and what advice they received about safely navigating the local area.