Putting up a rainbow flag during Pride Month is a good start, but it’s not enough. Today’s LGBTQ+ travelers—especially Gen Z and Millennials—expect more than just symbolic gestures.

They want hotels that truly understand and respect their needs.

If you’re ready to go beyond the basics and create a genuinely welcoming environment, this guide is for you. Let’s make your hotel a place where everyone feels at home!

LGBTQ+ travelers are an important and growing group, spending billions on travel every year. Being inclusive isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s also a smart business decision.

Here’s why:

• You’ll attract more Gen Z and Millennial guests.
• Guests will recommend your hotel to others.
• Your hotel will earn a reputation as modern and welcoming.

By focusing on inclusivity, you show that your hotel values all guests equally.

Inclusivity starts with your team. Every interaction—whether at the front desk, through housekeeping, or via concierge services—can help guests feel welcome.

Here’s how to prepare your staff:

1. Avoid Assumptions

Teach your team not to assume things about guests, like their relationships or gender identity.

For example, instead of saying “Mr. and Mrs.,” ask guests how they’d like to be addressed.

2. Respect Pronouns

Train staff to ask for and use guests’ preferred pronouns. Respecting pronouns shows care and makes guests feel valued.

Clear and inclusive policies show your commitment to equality. These create a sense of safety and belonging for LGBTQ+ travelers.

What to include:

• Nondiscrimination Policy: Display a clear policy on your website and in your hotel, showing that everyone will be treated fairly.
• Inclusive Booking Options: Allow guests to choose relationship terms like “partner” instead of “husband” or “wife.”
• Privacy Protection: Keep personal details like gender identity or relationship status confidential.

These steps demonstrate that you prioritize safety and respect for all guests.

Make every part of your guest’s stay inclusive and comfortable.

1. At the Front Desk

Train staff to greet all guests warmly and respectfully, without assumptions about their identities or relationships.

2. In the Rooms

Let guests customize room setups, like bed arrangements, without needing to explain their preferences.

These thoughtful touches create a memorable experience for everyone.

Even with inclusive practices, issues can arise. How you handle them is key.

Listen to Feedback

Provide guests with an easy, anonymous way to share concerns, like a survey or feedback form.

Train Staff for Complaints

Ensure your team responds to complaints with empathy and professionalism.

Apologize and Improve

If a mistake happens, apologize sincerely and work to fix it. Guests appreciate honesty and effort to improve.

Collaborating with LGBTQ+ groups shows genuine support for the community.

Sponsor Events for LGBTQ+

Support events like Pride parades or local gatherings to show your commitment.

Build Partnerships with LGBTQ+

Work with LGBTQ+ nonprofits to give back and strengthen community ties.

These efforts build credibility and show that your support goes beyond words.

Technology can make guests’ experiences smoother and more inclusive.

• Digital Check-In: Let guests check in online to reduce awkward interactions.
• Personalized Booking Forms: Add options for pronouns and preferences during booking.
• Smart Room Features: Use smart technology to give guests control over their stay, offering more comfort and privacy.

Keep improving your inclusivity efforts by tracking results and listening to feedback.

• Guest Surveys: Regularly ask LGBTQ+ guests for feedback and use their suggestions to improve.
• Review Monitoring: Pay attention to online reviews and address concerns promptly. Tools like the QloApps Google Review Add-on can help.

Making your hotel inclusive isn’t just about being politically correct. It’s about embracing diversity, creating meaningful connections, and showing respect to all guests.

When your guests feel welcomed, valued, and respected, they’ll become loyal advocates for your brand.

At QloApps, we’re here to help you create inclusive experiences for all your guests.

Our solutions, including the QloApps Channel Manager, make it easier to manage bookings and focus on creating welcoming stays.

Ready to stand out as an inclusive hotel? Contact us today!