Why inclusive travel is important for your business – HBX Group x Queer Destinations 

Tourism is a global industry connecting millions of people every year, yet not all travellers feel safe or welcomed. The LGBTQIA+ community, in particular, continues to in particular, is seeking experiences where they can feel welcomed, respected, and truly included. For companies in the travel sector, taking an active role in driving change is not only the right thing to do – it also allows brands to connect more deeply with travellers, build lasting trust, and create memorable experiences that resonate across diverse communities.

 At HBX Group, we believe that inclusive travel is not a trend – it’s a standard for excellence in hospitality. Together with Queer Destinations, an international organization dedicated to promoting LGBTQIA+ inclusion in tourism, we are creating a practical framework that helps destinations, hotels, and travel providers design experiences that are welcoming for all. 

Our partnership combines certification, technology, and education to help travel providers deliver inclusive experiences: 

1. Certification and training: Through the Queer Destinations Committed program, governments, destinations, hotels, and businesses are guided by rigorous inclusion standards and receive specialized training for hospitality professionals, ensuring every interaction with travellers is respectful, welcoming, and informed. 

1. Global technology and connectivity: HBX Group’s booking platform allows partners to connect their services with travellers worldwide, providing seamless performance while clearly communicating their commitment to inclusion and building trust with customers. 

1. Inventory and visibility: By integrating HBX Group’s exclusive accommodation inventory with Queer Destinations’ expertise, partners gain visibility and credibility in the LGBTQIA+ travel space, making it easier for travellers to find, book, and enjoy inclusive experiences. 

1. Positive impact: Every booking within the certified network supports organisations demonstrably committed to inclusion, and revenue flows back into local LGBTQ+ communities through collaborations with NGOs, creating a loop of conscious, meaningful impact. 

Whether you are a hotel, tour operator, or destination, there are concrete steps to make travel experiences more inclusive and trusted by LGBTQIA+ travellers: 

• Train your teams: Offer awareness and inclusion programs so staff understand the needs of LGBTQIA+ travellers, create welcoming interactions, and are confident in handling sensitive situations. 

• Communicate your commitment: Make inclusion visible in your marketing, website, booking platforms, and social media, so travellers can easily identify LGBTQIA+ friendly services. 

• Certify and verify: Participate in programs like Queer Destinations Committed to demonstrate accountability and gain recognition for your inclusive practices. 

• Integrate technology: Use booking platforms and tools that clearly signal inclusivity to customers, making it easier for them to discover and book your services. 

• Curate inclusive experiences: Review your services, activities, and partnerships to ensure they are welcoming, respectful, and tailored for diverse traveller needs. 

• Collaborate locally: Partner with local LGBTQIA+ communities, NGOs, or initiatives to support social impact while strengthening your connection with the local culture. 

• Measure and improve: Gather feedback from LGBTQIA+ travellers and staff, and use insights to refine services, policies, and training continuously. 

These actions help businesses provide safer, more welcoming experiences, foster trust, and create lasting relationships with travellers, while contributing to a more conscious and responsible tourism ecosystem. 

As our Chief HR, Communications & ESG Officer, Elena Pérez, explains: 
"Travel should be safe, inclusive and welcoming for everyone. Partnering with Queer Destinations is a meaningful step towards transforming how our industry understands and promotes diversity and inclusion." 

Our Chief Commercial Officer, Carlos Muñoz, adds: 
"By achieving the Queer Destinations Committed distinction, we are creating more inclusive experiences for our LGBTQIA+ customers while unlocking a strategic commercial opportunity. Doing the right thing for our customers also strengthens our position in the market." 

Inclusive experiences build  trust,  loyalty  and competitive advantage  in a rapidly growing segment:  

• 10 %  of the world’s population   identifies as LGBTQIA+.
  

• 22.3 %  of Generation Z self-identify as LGBTQIA+.
  

• 60% of LGBTQ+ travellers   are more likely to choose a destination that  actively support and provide visibility to the community. And a  further 64% are more likely to book with a brand that makes efforts in this direction.  

This  represents  a community that is engaged   and  values inclusive travel   experiences.  Businesses that embrace inclusivity can create meaningful connections, enhance guest satisfaction, and foster long-term loyalty.