Preferred Targets LGBT Travellers with Pride Collection

LGBT travelers can now choose from an increasing number of hotels that are more welcoming and understanding.

100 Preferred Hotel Group members around the world have joined together to create Preferred Pride, a group of independently owned and operated hotels that are now actively looking at the LGBT traveler as an important market.

To be eligible for Preferred Pride, the hotels must be either TAG Approved (Community Marketing's Travel Alternative Group) or belong to IGLTA (International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association).

As part of the program, diversity training is offered to hotels to provide insight in best practices in serving LGBT guests. Training suggestion examples include providing bathrobes, slippers, and toiletries befitting same sex couples; having a knowledgeable concierge who can provide a list of the area's best attractions, dining and nightlife; or simply including publications within the hotel that acknowledge the specific guest's interests.

"Preferred Pride is more than just another LGBT seal of approval; the program was created to unite Preferred's diverse community of independent hoteliers around the world who are committed to the LGBT community," said Rick Stiffler, Preferred Hotel Group executive director, leisure sales. "It is a global initiative that enables hoteliers to learn about and better understand the needs and preferences of the LGBT traveler."

Most Preferred Pride member hotels are in the USA, however there are also member hotels currently located in: Belize, Canada, China (Beijing), Dominican Republic, France, French Polynesia, Greece, Guatemala, Ireland, Italy, Japan (Tokyo), Mexico, Netherlands, Peru, Puerto Rico, Saint Lucia, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the United States.

See recent travel news from: Travel News Asia, Preferred