For LGBTQ+ travellers, factors such as local laws, cultural attitudes, and personal safety considerations can influence how and where they travel. Taking these into account can support a more inclusive and well-managed travel programme.
Why this matters
The legal and social landscape for LGBTQ+ individuals varies significantly across destinations. In some locations, travellers may face restrictions or differing cultural norms that can impact their experience.
For our customers, this forms an important part of delivering a travel programme that supports traveller wellbeing, safety, and confidence.
Key considerations for travel managers
When reviewing travel policies, there are several practical considerations:
- Destination risk awareness
Understanding local laws and cultural context as part of pre-trip planning, encouraging travellers to review destination guidance ahead of travel.
- Inclusive travel policies
Ensuring policies allow for flexibility where individual traveller needs may differ, while supporting traveller safety and wellbeing.
- Internal awareness of support channels
Ensuring employees understand available support and policies and clearly know who to contact externally at Clarity (including out-of-hours services such as C24).
- Reviewing hotel programmes
Reviewing preferred hotel programmes to ensure they prioritise safety, consistency, and inclusivity. Focusing on trusted brands and well-reviewed properties.
How we support you
As your travel management provider, supporting traveller safety and wellbeing is central to our approach. This includes:
- Sourcing appropriate accommodation through Clarity Rooms
Offering competitive rates at well-known hotel brands, providing reassurance through trusted and reputable partners
- Real-time traveller visibility with Clarity Track
Enabling you to locate and support travellers quickly when needed
- Proactive travel alerts
Our Travel Alerts team share relevant updates with travellers who have opted in, helping them stay informed throughout their journey
- 24/7 support through C24
Providing round-the-clock assistance so travellers can access help wherever they are
How does the supply chain support?
We asked one of hotel partners to see what they do to support travellers.
"At Leonardo Hotels, we re committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful environment for all guests and team members. We recognise the importance of ensuring that LGBTQ+ travellers feel safe, valued, and able to be themselves throughout their journey.
Our approach to inclusion is embedded across our business through our Diversity & Inclusion Charter that promotes equality, diversity, and non-discrimination. We strive to foster a culture where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
To support this commitment, we focus on:
- Maintaining inclusive workplace policies and practices that encourage diversity and equal opportunities.
- Providing training and guidance to team members to help ensure respectful, inclusive interactions with guests and colleagues.
- Creating welcoming guest experiences where individual needs and preferences are recognised and respected.
- Promoting a culture of belonging across our hotels, where all travellers can feel comfortable and supported.
As a hospitality business serving guests from around the world, we understand that inclusive travel experiences matter. We continually seek opportunities to strengthen our approach and ensure that every guest enjoys a positive and welcoming stay."
- Gemma Gage, National Account Manager – Leonardo Hotels UK &Ireland
Helpful resources
For customers looking to build awareness or support policy development, the following resources may be useful:
- ILGA World Map – overview of LGBTQ+ laws by country
https://ilga.org/maps-sexual-orientation-laws
- UK Government Travel Advice (FCDO) – destination-specific safety and local law guidance
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
Beyond pride month: Keeping the conversation going
Supporting LGBTQ+ travellers is an ongoing part of delivering inclusive and well-managed travel programmes.
For further support, policy reviews, or to explore best practice, please contact your Clarity account management team.
