How to Find LGBTQ+ Friendly Hotels and Accommodations

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Diverse LGBTQ+ Couple Smiling at Check-in
Diverse LGBTQ+ Couple Smiling at Check-in

Traveling as part of the LGBTQ+ community should be a joyful and safe experience, but finding accommodations that are truly welcoming can sometimes feel daunting. Knowing how to find LGBTQ+ friendly hotels and accommodations ensures you can explore the world with confidence, feeling respected and celebrated for who you are. This guide offers practical tips, real-world examples, and actionable steps to help you discover hotels and accommodations that prioritize inclusivity.

Why Finding LGBTQ+ Friendly Hotels Matters

Travel is about creating memories, but for LGBTQ+ travelers, safety and acceptance are top priorities. Choosing LGBTQ+ friendly hotels and accommodations ensures you’re staying in a space where you’re valued, whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or in a group. According to a 2023 survey by Booking.com, 74% of LGBTQ+ travelers prioritize accommodations with clear inclusivity policies. This section explores why this matters and how to start your search.

Safety and Comfort Come First

LGBTQ+ friendly hotels create environments where guests feel secure. From staff training to inclusive policies, these accommodations go beyond tolerance to offer genuine hospitality. For example, a lesbian couple traveling to a new city might feel uneasy without knowing a hotel’s stance on inclusivity. By choosing a queer-friendly hotel, they can relax and enjoy their trip.

Key Insight: Always check for hotels with explicit LGBTQ+ inclusive policies to avoid surprises.

Building Community and Connection

Staying at LGBTQ+ friendly accommodations often means connecting with like-minded travelers. Many inclusive hotels host events, such as drag brunches or pride celebrations, fostering a sense of community. For instance, The Standard Hotel in Miami Beach regularly organizes LGBTQ+ events, making it a hub for queer travelers.

LGBTQ+ Travelers Laughing at Rooftop Bar
LGBTQ+ Travelers Laughing at Rooftop Bar

How to Find LGBTQ+ Friendly Hotels: Practical Tips

Finding LGBTQ+ friendly hotels and accommodations requires research, but it’s easier than you might think. Here are actionable steps to guide you.

1. Look for LGBTQ+ Certifications and Affiliations

Many hotels proudly display affiliations with organizations like the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) or TAG Approved Accommodations. These certifications indicate a commitment to inclusivity. For example, hotels like the Axel Hotels chain are TAG-approved and cater specifically to LGBTQ+ guests.

  • Actionable Tip: Visit IGLTA’s website to find a list of accredited hotels worldwide.
  • Example: The Kimpton Hotels chain, known for its inclusivity, often partners with IGLTA for events and promotions.

2. Read Reviews from LGBTQ+ Travelers

Online reviews are a goldmine for gauging a hotel’s inclusivity. Platforms like TripAdvisor and Travel Gay feature reviews from LGBTQ+ travelers. Look for mentions of staff attitudes, same-sex couple experiences, or pride events.

  • Pro Tip: Search for keywords like “gay-friendly” or “LGBTQ+ welcoming” in reviews to filter relevant feedback.
  • Example: A review on Travel Gay praised the W Hotel in San Francisco for its warm welcome to a transgender guest, highlighting staff training.

3. Check Hotel Policies and Amenities

Examine a hotel’s website for signs of inclusivity, such as non-discrimination policies, gender-neutral restrooms, or pride-themed packages. Some hotels, like the Hilton San Diego Bayfront, offer “Pride Packages” during pride month, including rainbow-themed amenities.

  • Key Insight: Hotels with explicit inclusivity statements are more likely to prioritize your comfort.
  • Actionable Tip: Email the hotel directly to ask about their LGBTQ+ policies if unclear.

4. Use LGBTQ+ Travel Platforms

Dedicated platforms like Purple Roofs and Misterb&b specialize in queer-friendly accommodations. These sites list hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals vetted for inclusivity.

  • Example: Misterb&b helped a gay couple find a welcoming guesthouse in Lisbon, complete with pride flags and local LGBTQ+ event guides.
  • Pro Tip: Cross-check listings on these platforms with mainstream sites like Booking.com for deals.

5. Engage with Local LGBTQ+ Communities

Before booking, connect with local LGBTQ+ groups on platforms like Meetup or X to ask for hotel recommendations. Locals often know which accommodations are genuinely welcoming.

  • Example: A traveler to Bangkok joined a local queer Meetup group and discovered the Siam Heritage Hotel, known for its inclusive vibe.
Welcoming Lobby with Pride Decor
Welcoming Lobby with Pride Decor

How to Find LGBTQ+ Friendly Accommodations Beyond Hotels

While hotels are a popular choice, other accommodations like vacation rentals, hostels, and B&Bs can also be LGBTQ+ friendly. Here’s how to find them.

Vacation Rentals and Airbnb

Platforms like Airbnb allow hosts to indicate inclusivity in their listings. Look for hosts who mention “LGBTQ+ friendly” or display pride symbols in photos. Airbnb’s “Inclusive Hosting” guide encourages hosts to create welcoming spaces.

  • Actionable Tip: Message hosts to confirm their stance on inclusivity before booking.
  • Example: A non-binary traveler found a queer-friendly Airbnb in Montreal with a host who provided a guide to local LGBTQ+ nightlife.

Hostels and Budget Options

Many hostels cater to diverse travelers, including LGBTQ+ guests. Sites like Hostelworld let you filter for inclusive properties. For instance, the Generator Hostel in Berlin is known for its queer-friendly vibe and pride events.

  • Key Insight: Budget doesn’t mean sacrificing inclusivity—many hostels prioritize diversity.

Bed and Breakfasts

B&Bs often offer a personal touch, and many are LGBTQ+-owned or operated. Check Purple Roofs for listings. A gay couple staying at a B&B in Provincetown, MA, raved about the owner’s recommendations for local drag shows.


Inviting B&B with Rainbow Flag
Inviting B&B with Rainbow Flag

How to Ensure a Safe and Welcoming Stay

Once you’ve booked an LGBTQ+ friendly hotel or accommodation, take these steps to maximize comfort.

Communicate Your Needs

Before checking in, inform the hotel of any specific needs, such as a room for a same-sex couple or gender-neutral amenities. Most inclusive hotels are happy to accommodate.

  • Example: A transgender guest emailed a hotel in advance to request gender-neutral bathroom access and received a warm, accommodating response.

Know Your Rights

Research local laws and attitudes toward LGBTQ+ individuals at your destination. Resources like the ILGA World provide country-specific guides. For example, while Singapore has conservative laws, many hotels there are LGBTQ+ welcoming.

  • Pro Tip: Carry a copy of the hotel’s inclusivity policy in case of issues.

Share Your Experience

After your stay, leave a detailed review on platforms like TripAdvisor or Travel Gay. Mention how the hotel supported LGBTQ+ guests to help others make informed choices.


Conclusion: Travel with Pride

Finding LGBTQ+ friendly hotels and accommodations is about more than just a place to stay—it’s about feeling safe, celebrated, and free to be yourself. By researching certifications, reading reviews, and engaging with queer-friendly platforms, you can discover accommodations that make your trip unforgettable. Whether you’re sipping cocktails at a pride-themed hotel bar or relaxing in a cozy B&B, the right accommodation sets the tone for a joyful journey.

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